Was There a Summer Slowdown, and How Should Sellers and Buyers Approach the End of the Year?

August cooled off: closings down 8 percent and months of supply up to 5.9. Prices are still ahead year over year, and the balance has tilted toward buyers. What that means for both sides heading into the end of the year.

Ginger Pruett Holmes, Patrick Pruett and David Pruett of the Holmes and Pruett Homes Team standing together in front of a reclaimed wood wall
Ginger Pruett Holmes, Managing Broker and Owner

Published July 14, 2026 · 4 min read

Middle Tennessee. Figures from MLS RealTracs, Redfin, and Mortgage Reports.
Middle Tennessee. Figures from MLS RealTracs, Redfin, and Mortgage Reports.

Unlike the sweltering Nashville heat index during the month of August, the housing market experienced a cooling period. According to MLS RealTracs, the number of transactions closed in August was down by 8 percent and months of supply crept up by 8 percent to 5.9, which translates into fewer homes being sold and houses staying on the market a little longer.

Still, the last 12 months show that Nashville homeowners saw a gain of 10.5 percent, with the average home price landing at $946,847.

Redfin recently reported that 30 percent of Nashville's home listings experienced a reduction in list price. Add to this the fact that buyers have more homes to choose from and generally are receiving favorable seller incentives, and you have a market that tilts in favor of the homebuyer.

However, even while homebuyers have many advantages, home prices remain a challenge for some of them. Interest rates have remained steady in the last few months and today hover around 6.5 percent, which handily beats the 50-year average of 7.7 percent (Mortgage Reports).

Approaching the market

If you are a home seller, the best opportunity to sell your home is by pricing it realistically and preparing the house to be ready to sell. Many buyers are searching for value, and they often want a move-in ready home. If you are a buyer, there are great upsides in terms of seller incentives, choice in homes, and the potential to purchase a home below list price.

Having an experienced agent to help you approach the ups and downs of the real estate market is important. Call our team today.

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